Question Time

HEALTH BUDGET

Ms CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (16:32): My question is to the Premier. Why did the government announce health cuts yesterday, 15 minutes after the Premier's press conference, and why didn't the Premier have the courage to defend these cuts himself?

The SPEAKER: Well, that is impermissible comment in a question, and I warn the deputy leader for the first time. Minister for Health.

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health and Ageing, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister for Defence Industries, Minister for Veterans' Affairs) (16:32): Sir, the decision was taken to cabinet yesterday and announced accordingly. I am the Minister for Health; I have responsibility for the carriage of the health portfolio. I am more than happy to take this policy to the people of South Australia and to be held accountable for it.